bmw e36 m52 1.tune up. 2. not starting?

[jacksonfive]

Two questions. What do I need to do a tune up on my 1996 328is. It has 109,000 on the odometer and has never had a tune up befor. Second question is that sometimes it won't start. It turns over but I figure it is not getting spark or fuel. Have you encountered a problem like this befor and is my second question related to my first one? Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated.
Jackson.

[stupenal]

I'd start first with spark plugs. They're easy to replace. Then I'd go replace all fluids in the car. Tranny, diff, brake, oil. Maybe replace fuel filter too? Flush coolant is also nice. Just basic stuff to get everything up to snuff.

[mas197804]

I would agree with Stupenal. While the rad is drained, I would replace the water pump for one with a metal impelar (if its not aleady been done) and replace the thermostat, thermostat housing for an aluminum model and, of course apropriate gaskets, hoses, belts etc.

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

An intermittent no-start like that is often electrical in nature. I would suspect the DME relay, wherever that is located in these cars. You may be able to jumper it or tap on it to see if that fixes your no-start. Also look for loose wires or wires with brittle insulation on them. Wiggle the wires going to the relay and see if that helps.

--DD

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

If you send me your email address, I can send you an article going over all the factory service checkpoints for your car.